Political Islam in the Caucasus

Islam is increasingly becoming a factor in the politics of the wider Caucasus region, as Azerbaijan experiences a growth of religion in politics and Turkey and Iran compete for Islamic influence on their neighbors.

Islam is increasingly becoming a factor in the politics of the wider Caucasus region. In the south, Azerbaijan is experiencing a growth of religion in politics. Turkey and Iran compete for Islamic influence on their neighbors. In the North Caucasus, Moscow faces an ongoing insurgency that has many Islamic elements.

Two panels of Carnegie and outside experts analyzed the current trends and likely responses from governments in the region.

Although major military operations have ceased, the North Caucasus remains Russia’s most troubled region and continues to suffer from a radical Islamist insurgency.

About the Russia and Eurasia Program

The Carnegie Russia and Eurasia Program has, since the end of the Cold War, led the field of Eurasian security, including strategic nuclear weapons and nonproliferation, development, economic and social issues, governance, and the rule of law.